American Colleges Where the Cities Make Campus Life Even Better

43. Brown University – Providence, Rhode Island: Ivy League Charm, Creative City Life

Brown University’s historic campus is seamlessly woven into the fabric of Providence's charming College Hill neighborhood, overlooking a city known for its vibrant arts scene, culinary innovation (think Johnson & Wales), and rich history. Students enjoy a walkable city with the WaterFire art installation, eclectic shops, and proximity to the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), fostering a uniquely creative and intellectual urban atmosphere. Brown’s open curriculum thrives in this environment, encouraging exploration both on and off campus in this compact, dynamic New England capital.